<p>Okay...so I know this isn't really "med. school related" but it is healthcare so I decided to stick it here....</p>
<p>And I know the whole, "you shouldn't worry about the money, you should do what makes you happy, ect" but I am just trying to get a feel for the careers afterwards considering the programs are the same length of duration</p>
<p>EDIT: Also, I am particularly looking at 'west coast' salaries (ie, California -- where I am currently attending school and hope to remain) but even nationwide would help...thanks!</p>
<p>Salary.com can be very useful for these purposes.</p>
<p>I currently have been working in healthcare for 30 years, RN BS. I believe a physical therapist has more options for better income because they can go into specialized fields as well as have a private practice. A PA can earn lots of money but they work UNDER a physician, I am not sure how autonomous you can be. Physicians refer to Physical therapists for their expertise in healing modalities of specific types of diseases and injuries. Many areas to go into, almost limitless. PA I'm not so sure how high the ceiling is and what the constraints would be if working under the physician.</p>
<p>Physical therapists can earn a lot of money. A classmate of mine has a HUUUUGE house (gates w/ surveillance cameras, insanely long driveway, etc.), and kids at school asked him, "What do your parents do? Are they doctors?" He replied, "No, they're physical therapists."</p>
<p>Apparently, if PTs own their own business it can be very lucrative.</p>
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Apparently, if PTs own their own business it can be very lucrative.
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<p>You can substitute anything for "PT" and that's always true.</p>